The United States has finally addressed the current protests against the proposed finance bill 2024, emphasizing that Kenyan police must be patient and refrain from using force against the protesters.
On Wednesday, Mathew Miller, a spokeswoman for the US Department of State, said Blinken talked with President William Ruto and mentioned the need to decrease national tensions.
“In a call with Kenyan President Ruto, Secretary Blinken emphasized the importance of reducing tensions and ensuring security services demonstrate restraint and refrain from violence,” Miller said in an X post at 12:55 a.m. Thursday East African Time (Wednesday 2:55 p.m. Pacific Time).
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“The U.S. will remain a steadfast partner of Kenya’s government and people as they address economic challenges.”
While it is unclear when Ruto met with Blinken, the president declared just before 5 p.m. on Wednesday that he would not sign the disputed bill due to rising public pressure.
In a televised address, Ruto stated that he elected not to consent to the draft law but instead returned it to Parliament with his objections, suggesting the elimination of all sections.
The Bill recommended higher taxes as Ruto's administration aimed to generate an additional Ksh.346.7 billion in income for the 2024/25 budget.
Peaceful youth-led protests against it have turned deadly, with police firing live bullets and tear gas canisters at protestors.
On Wednesday, the Kenya National Commission for Human Rights reported 22 deaths, over 300 injuries, and 50 arrests.
Following Ruto's statement that he would not sign the 2024 Finance Bill, several protestors on social media stated that they were still planning to demonstrate on Thursday in solidarity with those slain by police.
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